Napo calls for 70% technical focus in Ghana’s universities to boost skills and development
Former Energy and Education Minister and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) vice presidential candidate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has outlined his views on higher education reform, technical university development and political participation during the second edition of the “Time with a Politician” series at the University of Ghana.
The event was organised by the Ghana office of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in partnership with the Department of Political Science at the University of Ghana, under the theme “Governance and Leadership: Vision to Delivery.”
Speaking to students and faculty on June 3, 2026, Dr Opoku Prempeh proposed a restructuring of Ghana’s technical university system, arguing that at least 70% of academic programmes should be technical in nature.
He stressed that the reform should not only reflect curriculum changes but also involve the strengthening of human resources within institutions.
“So, I’m of the opinion that G-Tech should come up with a proposal, if we’re a technical university, 70% of the courses there must be technical… The 70 will be human beings as well, lecturers as well. We have to do it.”
He cautioned that poorly managed reforms could undermine academic institutions, citing past experiences where resources and staff were redistributed during university restructuring processes.
Dr Opoku Prempeh referenced earlier education sector reforms, including the expansion of academic retirement age for professors from 60 to 70 years.
He argued that retaining experienced academics strengthens universities, noting that senior professors often represent the highest level of institutional expertise.
He also warned against politicisation of academic reform processes, suggesting that excessive political interference could negatively affect universities and teaching quality.
During an interactive question-and-answer session, Dr Opoku Prempeh was asked about his political future and whether he would accept a running mate position if offered in a future election.
He responded, “I will run and accept it.”
Opening the forum, KAS Country Representative Anna-Lena Sabroso Wasserfall emphasised the importance of linking academic theory with practical political experience.
She said the initiative is designed to help students understand governance beyond textbooks, encouraging them to engage directly with policymakers and political leaders.
She urged students to actively participate by asking questions and challenging ideas, noting that the value of such forums depends on the quality of dialogue generated.
The “Time with a Politician” series is intended to promote civic education, democratic participation and leadership development among students.
Meanwhile, watch as Ghana's Parliament passes anti-LGBTQ bill again:
Copyright © 1994 - 2026 GhanaWeb. All rights reserved.
